ARCT40190

The architectural qualification is primarily focussed towards preparing graduates for careers in architecture. The course leads to a professional qualification in architecture and is approved under the EU Directive on Freedom of Movement for Architecture, which is recognized by the RIBA and RIAI. The foundations of understanding which are set out in the fourth year elective module are developed in this final year of the course. Further study is required to become a registered architect including a period of supplementary practical experience before full RIAI membership can be achieved. Details of this may be found on the website www.ucd.ie under Continuing Professional Education. The Professional Studies module provides a comprehensive set of lectures concerning the professional practice of architecture and the management of architectural practices. Students will develop an ethical approach to their career and understand their roles and duties as a professional. An awareness of the breadth of the role of the architect in the building procurement process is developed along with a greater understanding of the roles of others, including clients, consultants, planners and contractors. The knowledge, skills and attitudes which will enable students to have the freedom in choosing their mode of professional activity is developed. Professional themes are described including, planning law, fees, management principles, and general framework for the construction industry. This is the part of the course more easily achievable as the subject matter is clearly defined. However, professional knowledge has a decreasing shelf-life in the rapidly changing current environment. Therefore the importance of communication, leadership and interpersonal skills is taught, and collaboration with other disciplines on a real project is emphasised. Alternative methods of teaching have been introduced into the module in order to deviate from the traditional 'chalk and talk' method. This involves a series of real life scenarios, for which the students must collaborate to reach a solution, designed to arouse their curiosity and heighten their awareness about the construction process. The value of students' time and improved time management is emphasised in order to enable students to control and manage their design skills comfortably and freely as part of a profitable enterprise in tandem with other business matters. Procurement of buildings is described within the constraints of brief, programme and cost. The steps and processes to develop a brief correctly and bring this to a built realisation of quality are outlined. This involves a basic knowledge of law, and an understanding of procedures and contracts. The scope of the lectures includes: brief formation, client relationships and agreements, planning and regulatory/statutory requirements, design team roles and management, cost estimation and change and cost management, tendering procedures, construction contracts, site procedures and completion requirements. Graduates of the Professional Studies module should be equipped with the tools necessary for accomplishing a graceful transition from a studio environment to a practice environment.